Jail for Burnley man who broke Good Samaritan’s jaw

A man who tried to prevent a fight outside a pub ended up suffering a broken jaw and cheekbone, and lost several teeth in a savage attack.

Good Samaritan Stephen Lee, from Leyland, suffered serious injuries when raging Burnley man Craig Rainford, who he was trying to stop fighting, turned on him outside the Baron’s Rest pub in Astley Village, Chorley.

I acknowledge in some ways you’ve tried to turn your life around, but on this occasion your behaviour was completely unacceptable

Judge

Prosecuting at Preston’ Sessions House Court, Stephen Parker, said one witness had described violent Rainford as “beating his chest like an ape” during the incident on July 11 this year, knocking his victim out cold.

Rainford, wearing a Nike hoodie and striped top, gave no reaction in the dock as he was jailed for 10 months.

He had previously admitted a count of causing grievous bodily harm against Mr Lee.

The court heard the actions of the 27-year-old, now of Thorn Street, Burnley, led to the man having to have five teeth extracted.

The judge, Recorder Simon Medland QC, said: “You were very drunk at the time and behaving in a very violent way which caused concern to people.

“Whilst being restrained from getting involved in a fight you lashed out at Stephen Lee with such force you caused him to fall unconscious to the floor. He still lives with these consequences today.”

Rainford had only recently been released from a four-month jail term for affray.

Recorder Medland added: “You have a significant criminal record. I acknowledge in some ways you’ve tried to turn your life around, but on this occasion your behaviour was completely unacceptable.” Rainford must also pay a victim surcharge .